Kristi Leff, a fifth-grade teacher at Humphrey’s Highland in Amarillo, was named the 2025 Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year during an award ceremony in Round Rock. In her acceptance speech, she shared a story about connecting with a student in her first year and humorously mentioned her unconventional classroom setup, including a chicken coop. Leff emphasized the importance of nurturing students and creating a supportive environment, encouraging her fellow teachers to focus on valuing and empowering their students. She has 21 years of teaching experience, with the last nine at Humphrey’s Highland.
